Don't let Sandy Hook lead to bad policies

Published January 29. 2013 12:01AM

Luanne DeMatto Mystic

Connecticut has some of the strictest gun control laws on the books.

First, you must have a state issued gun permit to purchase, which requires state and federal (FBI) investigations. When you purchase a gun, the sale is recorded and registered with your local police. To make public the names and addresses of persons who "legally" hold a permit to carry will only help the criminals. All those who do not own guns will be vulnerable to unimpeded home invasion, while notifying the criminals where they can attempt to steal guns they cannot legally obtain. The police are aware of all legally purchased guns.

Yes, increase the penalties for criminal use of firearms, close loopholes in the permit process in all states. To require liability insurance and impose a 50 percent sales tax on ammunition will not deter persons with criminal intent, but financially harm the millions of law-abiding citizens, who have the right to defend themselves from these same criminals.

The Sandy Hook tragedy is unspeakable, as was the Petit Home Invasion. My heart goes out to all who lost loved ones. Let us look at the changes in mental health services and violent games/shows that desensitize these same unstable individuals.